A HORSE is engulfed in flames - in a sickening ritual in Spain for the patron
saint of ANIMALS. The petrified beast has to be forced over the bonfire in
Vilanova d'Alcolea, near Castellon. Horses are made to tackle fires lit
throughout the village. Riders claim it purifies them after a blessing from a
priest.

Barbaric ... Spanish ritual
But the ordeal brought outrage last night. The World Society for the Protection
of Animals said: "This is cruel and pointless.
"The only thing being celebrated here is cruelty."

Sample letter:
Honorable Ladies and Gentlemen,
The civilized world is appalled, outraged and horrified to learn of yet another
barbaric Spanish "tradition" that causes extreme suffering to innocent animals.
This pseudo "religious" ritual, carried out in the name of "purification", in
which a frightened horse is forced over a bonfire in Vilanova d'Alcolea, near
Castellon, can only be described as primitive and lacking in any humane concern
for the animals involved. It represents a throw-back to the Dark Ages and a
further demonstration of the ignorance and insensitivity still present today in
Spanish customs in which animals are "sacrificed". One cannot help but be
reminded of the fires of the Inquisition which also sought "purification".
It is long past time for members of the Spanish government to take the lead in
reviewing, passing and enforcing humane laws that ensure the protection and
compassionate care of all animals. Until then, I will refuse to visit Spain or
spend a dime on Spanish products and I will advise my friends and associates to
do the same.